New Construction Guide to Apartment Heating and Cooling Posted on June 20, 2025 Due to rising costs of living and increased ecological awareness, new apartment projects face pressure to be more energy-efficient. With HVAC being the largest source of energy consumption, heating and cooling systems are a critical focus for new construction. As such, we at Total Home Supply created this guide to apartment cooling and heating for new builds. This guide will walk you through the primary considerations for heating and cooling in new apartment projects, from system types and energy codes to zoning, ventilation, and noise mitigation. We will also explore the best HVAC system options available at the new construction stage. Why Apartment HVACs Require a Different Approach Unlike single-family homes, apartments present unique challenges. These include: Shared walls and ceilings that can impact airflow, heat retention, and system zoning. Occupant diversity means different thermal preferences within the same building. Limited space demands compact and efficient systems, especially if the project calls for individual HVAC per unit. Updated energy codes and regulations (e.g., IECC, ASHRAE 90.1) require more efficient systems than ever before. Noise control is more important due to the proximity of apartment units to each other. Decarbonization mandates in some states are pushing for electric-only HVAC systems. Key Considerations for New Apartment HVAC Here are the important factors to consider when planning for HVAC systems for new apartment constructions: 1. Energy Efficiency and Codes Local and state building codes often dictate the minimum SEER (for cooling) and HSPF (heating) efficiency ratings for ACs, heat pumps, and gas heaters. Additionally, if the project aims for LEED or Passive House certification, achieving these may require even higher performance. Make sure your HVAC system design: Complies with IECC or local amendments. Uses Energy Recovery Ventilators (ERVs) or Heat Recovery Ventilators (HRVs) where mandated. Meets duct leakage standards (if ducted systems are used). 2. Zoning and Individual Control Ideally, each apartment unit has its own independently controlled HVAC system, both for code compliance and occupant satisfaction. Consider: Thermostats in each unit Zoned ductless systems or packaged units Control access for building maintenance or smart system integration 3. Ventilation and Indoor Air Quality Apartments require mechanical ventilation for fresh air intake, especially in airtight new builds. ERVs/HRVs integrated into heating and cooling systems can: Improve air quality Reduce energy loss Help meet code requirements like ASHRAE 62.1 and 62.2. 4. Noise and Vibration Control HVAC units must be quiet enough to not disturb residents in a tightly packed apartment complex. Look for low decibel (dB) ratings Mount compressors away from living areas, or use rooftop units Isolate equipment with vibration pads or acoustic enclosures. We carry condenser stands and ground pads to help reduce vibrations. Opt for inverter technology for quieter operation. These allow the compressor to dynamically adjust its speed based on cooling or heating demand, greatly reducing operating noise. 5. Space Constraints Space-saving solutions help maximize living space in multifamily builds. Vertical terminal ACs and wall-mounted units conserve limited floor space. Closet-based air handlers or compact ductless mini splits minimize square footage use. 6. Fuel Source and Decarbonization Many jurisdictions are moving away from gas-based heating and promoting all-electric solutions: Heat pumps are now viable in colder climates due to inverter technology. Consider VRF/VRV systems, mini splits, or central air-to-water heat pumps. If natural gas is allowed, high-efficiency furnaces and boilers are also a good option. Consider who is paying the electric bill when deciding the value of a more efficent unit. 7. Smart Home Technology Use smart thermostats and WiFi-compatible units to future-proof projects and help improve energy efficiency. New standards like Matter can help unify the smart protocols for different appliances, not just HVAC. 8. HVAC Routing Pre-plan penetrations for linesets, ducts, and vents in your architectural design. Incorporate insulated chaseways for ductless lines to avoid condensation. Build mechanical closets with sufficient service clearances. Don’t forget makeup air systems for kitchen and bathroom exhaust requirements. Check out our guide to the different makeup air options. Apartment HVAC Options for New Builds 1. Ductless Mini Split Systems (Single-Zone or Multi-Zone) Ductless mini splits boast one of the highest energy efficiencies among HVAC systems and allow for individual zone control. The number of indoor units can also be scaled up or down as needed. Pros: Highly efficient according to the Department of Energy Flexible installation with wall, floor, and ceiling cassette indoor units Quiet operation Zone control Cons: Higher upfront cost Indoor wall units may be aesthetically limiting for some designers Each apartment requires its own system. A multi zone unit cannot be used across multiple apartments. Click here for our wide range of single and multizone mini split systems for new apartments. 2. Packaged Terminal Air Conditioners (PTACs) These self-contained cooling and heating units are highly robust and larger than through the wall units, good for cooling larger apartment spaces. Pros: Self-contained Easy to replace Low initial cost Often used in hotels and low-rise apartments New inverter driven options available to enhance energy efficiency and comfort Cons: Can be noisy Less energy efficient than mini splits One unit needed for each room in the apartment Check out our PTAC offerings from top brands used by major hotel chains and apartment complexes throughout the country. 3. Vertical Terminal Air Conditioners (VTACs) These versatile units are vertically mounted in a closet, providing a clean and hidden appearance. Great for luxury apartments where hidden climate control is desired and where PTACs are deemed too noisy or inefficient. Pros: Hidden installation in closets, more aesthetic Quieter than PTACs Good for open floor plans Allows for ducting to multiple rooms Cons: Requires closet space up against an outside wall Higher cost than PTACs May need more maintenance access See our extensive list of VTAC offerings for apartment builds that require hidden HVAC. 4. Window Air Conditioners Window units offer an inexpensive and quick AC solution for smaller apartment builds, at the cost of aesthetics. Pros: Lowest cost Good for smaller apartments with 1-2 bedrooms Quick installation Cons: Least efficient Obstructs window view Noisy Not aesthetically pleasing We carry a wide range of window units to suit different apartment builds, including fixed window and slide out models. 5. Through the Wall Air Conditioners A more permanent option compared to window ACs, through the wall units don’t take up window space. Pros: Longer term solution Doesn’t require windows Easy to replace thanks to industry standard sizes Cons: More complicated installation See our through the wall units from top manufacturers, along with a wide range of sleeves and accessories. Final Thoughts Selecting the right heating and cooling systems during new construction can significantly impact the comfort, performance, and resale value of an apartment building. Whether you’re aiming for top-tier energy efficiency, code compliance, or long-term occupant satisfaction, making the right HVAC decisions at the blueprint stage sets your project up for success. At Total Home Supply we offer a wide range of heating and cooling systems ideal for new apartment builds, from highly efficient ductless mini splits to hidden VTACs. Drop us a line and we can help you design a system tailored to your building specs, energy goals, and budget. Contact us today, and let’s build it right from the start! Mickey Luongo Mickey is the resident heating and air conditioning expert with over 15 years of experience in the industry.
